BMW Discontinues X4, 8 Series, and Z4 as New Strategy Takes Shape

BMW has announced the discontinuation of three models: the X4, 8 Series, and Z4. This decision is part of the company’s strategic shift towards its new electric vehicle platform, known as the Neue Klasse. Production for these models will cease between late 2025 and spring 2026, with no direct replacements planned.

The Neue Klasse architecture is set to underpin up to 40 new or updated BMW models by 2027. The rollout is expected to begin with the all-electric iX3 SUV. The discontinuation of the X4, 8 Series, and Z4 reflects BMW’s effort to streamline its offerings and move away from models that have not performed well in sales. These three vehicles collectively accounted for only 3% of BMW’s total sales in the current year, highlighting their limited market impact.

End of the Road for BMW’s Roadsters

The most notable loss comes from the Z4, marking a significant exit from the roadster segment for BMW. The Z4 will continue to be available in the sDrive30i and M40i trims until production ends in spring 2026 at the Magna Steyr facility in Graz, Austria. This model has been closely associated with the Toyota GR Supra, which is also nearing the end of its production cycle. With no successor planned for the Z4, BMW is following a trend seen with other manufacturers, such as Benz and Audi, who have also phased out their roadster models.

The 8 Series, which includes coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe variants, will also be phased out. Despite a minor update in 2022, the 8 Series has struggled to capture buyer interest compared to higher-end luxury brands like Aston Martin and Bentley. The Gran Coupe has been the top seller within the range, but overall sales have remained low. A limited-run M850i Edition M Heritage model, limited to 500 units worldwide, is expected to be the final offering in this series.

Future Directions for BMW

The discontinuation of the X4 coupe-style crossover is expected to have less impact on the brand. Although it received a facelift in 2021, production of the gasoline models concluded recently. BMW will not develop a direct successor for the X4, opting instead to position the smaller X2 as a partial alternative. An all-electric version, the iX4, is reportedly in development, although official confirmation is pending.

As BMW pivots towards electric vehicles and new model architectures, the company has not disclosed plans for future sports coupes or roadsters. Recent sightings of an electric coupe prototype have fueled speculation, but no official announcements have been made regarding this direction.

In summary, BMW is taking a decisive step as it transitions into a new era of electric mobility, leaving behind models that no longer align with its strategic vision. The discontinuation of the X4, 8 Series, and Z4 marks a significant shift in the company’s lineup, reflecting broader trends in the automotive industry towards electric and sustainable vehicle options.